AstrologgerDhanteras
6 November 2026 · Lakshmi
2026 dates are good-faith estimates from standard panchang references — confirm the exact date and muhurat against a current Panchang before planning.
Significance
Diwali festivities begin on Kartika Krishna Trayodashi with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari (god of medicine). Purchasing gold, silver, or utensils is considered highly auspicious to welcome prosperity.
Astrological significance
Dhanteras falls on the thirteenth tithi of the waning moon, two days before Kartik Amavasya (Diwali), as the moon dims toward its darkest phase. It opens the five-day Diwali festival and is linked with Dhanvantari, who is said to have appeared during the churning of the ocean. Being lunar, its Gregorian date shifts within October and November.
Month: Kartik · Paksha: Krishna · Krishna Trayodashi (thirteenth day of the waning moon) of Kartik — the first day of the five-day Diwali sequence.
How Dhanteras is observed
- Purchasing gold, silver or new utensils as a traditional custom
- Worshipping Lakshmi and Dhanvantari
- Cleaning and decorating the home ahead of Diwali
- Lighting the first lamps of the Diwali period
- Drawing rangoli at the entrance
Frequently asked questions
When is Dhanteras in 2026?+
In 2026 it falls on 6 November 2026. As a lunar festival the date shifts each year, so confirm against a current panchang.
What does Dhanteras celebrate?+
It opens the Diwali festival with the worship of Lakshmi and Dhanvantari, and is traditionally linked with buying gold, silver or utensils.
Who is Dhanvantari?+
Dhanvantari is regarded as the physician of the gods and a form of Vishnu, said to have emerged during the churning of the cosmic ocean; the day is named partly after him.
What is the calendar significance?+
It falls on Krishna Trayodashi of Kartik, two days before the Diwali new moon, as the moon wanes toward darkness.